Hiring Emma Hayes has been nothing short of a jackpot for the US Women’s National Team—and we don’t need to convince you of that. The English tactician’s coaching experience and caliber speak for themselves, having turned things around within a couple of months for the American ladies. Correct, the Paris Olympics achievement is what we are referring to. But the burning question remains: What’s Hayes’ secret spice? Well, Emily Fox has some beans to spill.

One thing that people should know about Emma is that when you’re her disciple, consider all of your problems as her own. In other words, the former Chelsea boss is a mentor beyond the pitch. That way, players get the best guidance in all the aspects. No wonder it was easy for Hayes to build a close-knit relationship with her players in just a matter of time.

“There’s always something to learn if we’re at the top,” said Fox during an exclusive interview with ESPN FC. “We’re going to keep going and we’re always having ideas with each other,” she added, insisting everyone on the team try to remain on the same page.

Hayes is one of the rare coaches who likes to focus on even the smallest of intricacies. It’s almost as if she knows what a player is capable of without saying a single word or even relying on body movements. Now, connect the dots with us—before the Olympics, she already knew what her team would be. The rest of the job was simply to build chemistry within the roster.

The end result? All 22 American players returned from France with gold wrapped around their necks. “Everyone wants to learn; everyone wants to get better; everyone has a growth mindset… I think that’s one reason why we were so successful going to the Olympics. We were just ready for feedback, ready for it all and ready to embrace it,” concluded Fox.

Camaraderie.

That’s one of the words that strikes our minds after hearing this. Clearly, winning hearts in the dressing room and making players believe in each other have been the keys to their success. No wonder Fox has confidently heaped praise on her national team boss. In fact, Hayes’ secrets to USWNT’s success don’t end here.

Unlocking Emma Hayes’ more secrets to success with the USWNT

This isn’t the first time Emily Fox has sung praises for Hayes. Months ago, during an appearance on The Women’s Game podcast, the Arsenal star revealed the “bonding stuff” that the USWNT players did alongside Emma to strengthen their connection before the Summer Games. From eating out and engaging in various activities to holding team meetings during the tournament, the squad focused on building team culture and embracing vulnerability to foster a stronger unit.

Additionally, Fox also underscored Hayes’ humility and personable approach. That way, players felt more approachable to their boss, revealing any kind of pressure as well. Additionally, not repeatedly stressing players about the end goal allowed the players to remain focused and composed. “Emma was really good in terms of how she talked and giving us confidence and belief in ourselves. That was one thing that made a big difference,” concluded Emily.

It’s quite remarkable how Hayes was able to bring a personal touch that surely did wonders for the USWNT. Either way, that explains why everything has been so effortless for the former WSL manager. Not to remind you of her own personal transition from the domestic to the international stage. Best in her own class, as they say!